Ken Follett's 'The Pillars of the Earth' is highly popular. It's set in 12th - century England and follows the building of a cathedral. 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel is also well - loved. It focuses on the life of Thomas Cromwell during the Tudor period. These novels are popular because they combine accurate historical details with engaging characters and storylines.
Online platforms are also great for agents seeking historical novels. Amazon has a huge selection, with user reviews to help narrow down choices. Goodreads is another useful website. It not only allows you to find historical novels but also provides reading communities where you can discuss and get recommendations from other readers. Additionally, some specialized e - book platforms focus on historical literature.
Revolution is a significant theme in historical fiction. Books about the American Revolution or the French Revolution show the political and social upheaval of those times. Exploration and discovery are also themes, such as stories about the Age of Exploration when Europeans were sailing to new lands. The theme of slavery and the fight for freedom is also prominent, with novels exploring the lives of slaves in the Americas and their struggles for liberation.
They can start by networking at writing conferences. Writers often attend these events to pitch their works, and it's a great place for agents to discover new historical mystery novels.
They can start by checking out local libraries. Libraries usually have a wide selection of historical fiction books, carefully curated by librarians. Another great place is a well - stocked bookstore. Big chain bookstores or independent ones often have sections dedicated to historical fiction, where you can find best - sellers as well as hidden gems. Online platforms like Amazon also offer a vast array of historical fiction titles with user reviews to help agents make a choice.
For agents seeking graphic novels, online platforms like Amazon or Barnes & Noble's website are good starting points. They have a large selection, and you can read reviews to get an idea of the quality. Additionally, attending comic conventions can be very fruitful. There, you can meet creators, discover new works, and network with others in the industry.
One way is through referrals. They can network with other agents, editors, or established authors who might know of great historical fiction works. Another option is to attend writing conferences where they can directly meet with authors of historical fiction and review their pitches.
They look for a strong and unique plot. In historical fiction, the plot should be well - integrated with the historical context. For example, a mystery set in ancient Rome should have historical details that enhance the mystery, not just be a modern mystery with a Roman backdrop.
One way is to research online. There are websites like Publishers Marketplace which list agents and their interests. Another option is to look at the acknowledgments section in successful YA historical fiction books. Often, authors thank their agents there, and you can then research those agents.
One characteristic is that they often have a specific mission or goal. For example, in a historical spy - related historical fiction, an agent might be tasked with gathering intelligence.